Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of the nutrient zinc helps with fertility problems by improving sperm quality significantly reduced breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women. Whether you are trying to make a baby or just enjoy numerous attempts, pumpkin seeds are for you. If you have not included pumpkin seeds in your diet, you are truly missing out on a great experience. There are also a host of health benefits for men that eat pumpkin seeds.
In this article you will learn about 17 benefits of eating pumpkin seeds for prostate and overall health. For an added bonus, stay with us until the end and we will give you several tips on how to integrate more pumpkin seeds into your diet.
Here are the 17 Pumpkin Seed Benefits
- Enlarged prostate benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Taking pumpkin seed oil with or without saw palmetto may help BPH symptoms. Zinc is critical to normal prostate function and the prostate has the highest levels of zinc in a man’s body. Researchers believe that prostate tissue in men with BPH has significantly less zinc than men without BPH. A randomized study showed pumpkin seed oil improved the quality of life for men over a 3-month period by easing the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
- Prostate Cancer
Pumpkin seed is a rich source of polyphenols and other compounds that may function as a natural remedy to reduce the risk or delay the development of reoccurrence of prostate cancer. These seeds may affect how quickly cancer cells copies DNA and divide into two cells along with suppressing tumor growth. The Prostate Cancer Foundation tells us that making lifestyle changes can prevent 30% of prostate cancer.
- Prostatitis
Pumpkin seed oil is a safe alternative treatment for chronic nonbacterial prostatitis (a common prostate infection) that is non-invasive, unlike some of the common traditional treatments. Pumpkin seeds are not only rich in zinc, but they are also a major source of carotenoids and phytosterols which all are known to support prostate health.
- Sperm Quality
Pumpkin can improve sperm quality and decrease the risk of infertility in men. Some studies suggest that pumpkin seeds may also protect sperm from damage caused by autoimmune diseases and chemotherapy. The high antioxidants and other nutrients can contribute to healthy testosterone levels.
- Promote Sleep
Pumpkin seeds are a natural source of tryptophan which is an amino acid that can help promote sleep, so it is a good idea to eat these before going to bed. The zinc in these seeds can also help convert tryptophan to serotonin which changes into melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone that regulates your sleep cycle. Other nutrients in pumpkin seeds that can also affect sleep duration or zinc, copper, and selenium.
- Bladder Health
Pumpkin seeds and supplements have been used to help with symptoms of an overactive bladder. The seeds have chemicals that have a diuretic effect and cause an increase in urination, and thus relieve bladder pain and discomfort. This also helps relieve inflammation of the bladder.
- Regulate Blood Sugar
Pumpkin seeds contain zinc and magnesium which are both known to reduce and maintain blood sugar levels; therefore, they are a good source of nutrients if you have diabetes. One study found that supplementing with pumpkin juice or seed powder can reduce blood sugar levels for someone diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Another observational study with over 120,000 people found that diets rich in magnesium were associated with a 33% lower risk of type 2 diabetes in men.
- Strengthen Immune System
Pumpkin seeds have certain nutrients which can help strengthen the immune system. In addition to zinc and iron, Pumpkin seeds have high content of vitamin E and other cell-protective antioxidants. These compounds help strengthen the immune system and promote healthy blood vessels.
- Regulate Blood Pressure
Plant sterols, magnesium and potassium contained in pumpkin seeds help to keep blood pressure under control. In addition, magnesium promotes health mood and improve sleep. Having healthy magnesium levels in your system is crucial for normal blood pressure levels, as well as heart and bone health.
- Reduce Heart Disease
Antioxidants in pumpkin seeds such as carotenoids and vitamin E can keep the heart healthy and reduce damage caused by free radicals. Pumpkin seeds help to lower cholesterol in the blood and reduce high blood pressure. Both of these conditions are high risk factors for heart disease. These seeds provide a good source of fiber which is associated with reducing the chance of being diagnosed with heart disease. Studies show that pumpkins seeds have antioxidants that increase the nitric oxide levels in your body that work to keep your blood vessels smooth and flexible. This improves your blood flow and circulation problems which further reduces your chances of having heart disease.
- Improve Eyesight
Pumpkin seeds boost beta carotene which is a nutrient known to improve eye health and sharpen your eyesight. They are also a good source of zinc, a mineral is essential to keep your retina healthy. In addition, Vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin found in pumpkin protect the eyes, and help them function properly.
- Support Bone Health
Pumpkin seeds are loaded with calcium, magnesium and potassium which help form and maintain healthy bones. Magnesium is needed in our bodies for more than six hundred chemical reactions however, this mineral that is lacking in the diets of many Western populations. Approximately 79% of adults in the United States do not take the amount of magnesium that is recommended daily.
- Promote Hair Growth
Pumpkin seed oil may promote hair growth and prevent or prevent minor baldness. The seeds are loaded with rich fatty oils which are amazing for hair growth. Being rich in Omega 3, B vitamins, magnesium, iron and protein, pumpkin seeds have the property to improve hair quality and reduce the risk of baldness.
- Beautify Skin
Certain nutrients help tone and soothe the skin, fight acne, and facilitate rapid wound. The high amounts of antioxidants, zinc, vitamin E, omega 3- and 6- fatty acids have plenty of anti-aging effects on the skin, including retaining moisture, fighting free radicals, and reducing development of aging skin to help you maintain a youthful appearance. In addition, pumpkin seed oil helps protect cell membranes, maintain collagen, and promote skin rejuvenation.
- Supports Weight Loss
The high fiber, protein and unsaturated fats in the seeds supports healthy weight loss and reduce belly fat. A Recent study conducted on 345 adults found that regular fiber intake promoted dietary adherence and weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness and preventing overeating between meals which contribute to weight gain.
- Mood
Pumpkin seeds have a high content of tryptophan which can improve your mood. If you feel down or experience bad mood just eat 2 tablespoons of pumpkin seeds. They are a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes good mood and deep sleep. 1 gram of tryptophan is enough to help you feel a difference. Remember, Pumpkin seeds also contain magnesium which is good for your mental health.
- Reduce Inflammation
The antioxidants in pumpkin seeds may reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms of certain inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. By reducing chronic inflammation, you also reduce the risk of many diseases, considering inflammation is the root cause of many chronic illnesses including Alzheimer’s, heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and cancer. 
TIPS on adding Pumpkin Seeds to your diet
It is easy to incorporate pumpkin seeds into your diet. Here are a few suggestions on how to add pumpkin seed to your diet and get you on the road to better health!
- Eat them on their own raw or roasted, salted or unsalted. When roasting you can add any spice or seasoning for a healthy snack.
- Add them to smoothies, Greek yogurt, and fruit.
- Sprinkle them on salads, add to soups, granola, or cereals.
- Use the medicine ingredient to bake for sweet or savory bread, cakes, or cookies.
- Used as a garnish on any meal like soups, chicken dishes or pasta.
- Blend them with other ingredients in a dip like hummus, pesto, or guacamole.
In Summary…
Pumpkin seeds are one of the best natural sources of magnesium and are packed with many powerful antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Men need to increase their daily intake of pumpkin seeds to protect their prostate and improve their overall health.
Pumpkin seeds and the oil have been used for medicinal purposes throughout history. For an overall healthy diet, the American heart association recommends eating a quarter cup daily of pumpkin seeds. The number of benefits that pumpkin seeds provide for men is astounding.
